After the Block Plan was implemented in 1970, there were various studies done to determine ways to reduce the faculty work load. One result was the development of paraprofessional positions often filled by students who have just graduated. In the fall of 1973, the mathematics department hired its first paraprofessional, Jim Flanders, a mathematics graduate from the class of 1973.

Jim held office hours, made up review sheets, helped grade student work, and arranged a few social events. Over the years, the paraprofessional has almost always been a Colorado College student (two exceptions: Mark Jones from England and Chad Kearney from the University of Colorado). Some have chosen to stay on for more than one year, but in more recent years this practice has been discouraged. The position has proved beneficial for students planning to attend graduate school who need a break to consolidate their interests.

In 1995, the department added a paraprofessional in computer science to help administer the mathematics lab and to help with the computer science courses. This position was converted in the fall of 2001 to a full-time Technical Director position.

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